Just one year ago, members of the Internet community united to defeat the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect IP Act (PIPA). While it is an important victory to celebrate and one not to be undervalued, our fight to preserve Internet freedom is far from over. Without education about how the Internet works, the lack of understanding by lawmakers only promises to bring more unfavorable legislation, like SOPA and PIPA, and endangers the future of Internet freedom as a whole. The Internet Infrastructure community provides the platform on which the Internet is built, making our companies uniquely qualified to teach our legislators the fundamentals. With that in mind, the i2Coalition proudly announces our Internet Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, February 27 to educate lawmakers about how the Internet works.

Our goal for Internet Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill is simple: we aim to educate legislators and members of the press about the Internet industry and the importance of supporting legislative and regulatory strategies that promote Internet growth and innovation. We understand the significance of collaboration and cooperation between those who understand and build the Internet and our elected leaders to find the best policy solutions.

While details are still being finalized, I’m pleased to share that U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) have confirmed their participation in the day’s activities. Our members are fully engaged, with many already planning to actively be involved: AiNET, Arvixe, Black Lotus, Cheval Capital, Firehost, Gandi.net, Green Olive Tree, Handy Networks, Hedgehog Hosting, Jumpline, LeaseWeb USA, ServInt, Studio 1337, and WiredTree. I look forward to updating you once additional details are available, but you can help us in our efforts today by:

Contacting your members of Congress on the importance of making sound legislative decision

Promoting the i2Coalition and our mission within your social networks, including following us on Twitter and liking us on Facebook

Subscribing to the i2Coalition email newsletter for our latest updates

The i2Coalition recognizes the challenges that face the Internet legislatively, but is also keenly aware of the opportunities and hope you’ll join us in promoting this critical day for the Internet community. For more ways to help, please visit our website or email us at membership@i2coalition.com.